While most authors dream of obtaining a contract with a royalty publisher, Alvin Reid, author of Light the Fire, had the luxury of a publisher approaching him about publishing his book, previously published by WinePress in 2000.

Reid, Professor of Evangelism at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in North Carolina, felt an urgency to get his message to youth after the Wedgwood shooting in Texas. He knew that self-publishing would be quicker but wasn’t sure about the quality. At the time he was searching for a publisher, someone gave him a WinePress book and he used the internet to make the connection. He was so impressed with the quality and services that he felt he should self-publish rather than seeking a traditional publisher, even though he’d been traditionally published by Kregel, Broadman and Holman, and others in the past.

Light the Fire was a success, selling over 5,500 copies. He’s received calls, e-mails and letters from youth all over the country excited about the message of his book, that God can use youth for his glory. Most teens thought they had to be older before they would be of use to the Lord. When Student Life came to his area, a friend told them about Light the Fire and they purchased 3,000 copies to take on tour around the United States as they minister to youth through speaking and music.

One day the marketing director from Kregel called Reid to get his ideas for marketing one of their books. He casually mentioned Light the Fire and she asked for a copy to evaluate. Kregel loved the book and since they are currently pursuing the college market they asked Reid to make a few changes for that age group. Reid said, “In addition to the quality of WinePress product, they also have great editorial services which made the book an easy switch to traditional publishing.” Though he had a wonderful experience self-publishing with WinePress Reid knew it was time to make the transition. He’s chosen to pursue writing and speaking, letting a traditional publisher handle the details of publishing and marketing. Having experienced both sides of the fence in publishing, Reid commented, “It’s hard to get traditionally published, so if a person has an opportunity to promote his own book I’m 100% for self-publishing. The quality is so much higher now than in the days of vanity publishing.”